Feb 19 The Ultimate guide to PLUS SIZE ALABAMA by Jamie Cole

Although most folks that live in Alabama would argue that their 'state mascot' is Big Al, the truth is that the official state insect is actually the Monarch Butterfly. Adorned with striking colored wings, the beauty of the Monarch is the perfect representation for the scenery and the people who call the great state of Alabama home.

Having never met an Alabama native who wasn't proud to claim their Alabama roots, we wanted to know what life is like in Alabama. What better way to find out than to connect with a few of Alabama's talented, witty, and fashionable bloggers to develop the ULTIMATE GUIDE to Plus Size Alabama. Take a peek into the lives of these incredible women for a taste of Alabama at its finest!

Eat, Drink, and Be Happy!

Do you have a favorite local spot that you frequent?

I have several that I love.Yo Mama’s restaurant, Urban Cookhouse, and Pho Pho are three of my favorites by far. We are on the cusp of culinary greatness here in Alabama, so finding at least 20 restaurants you will fall in love with from food trucks to high class is super easy to do.

If so, what makes it comfortable for you?

Yo Mama’s restaurant feels like home. It feels like a big family reunion with good food and good conversation. My favorite is the Chicken and Waffles with the homemade punch! Southern Cuisine at its finest. Urban Cookhouse brings the farm to the table with a modern twist. You get to experience the freshest produce and meats and the dessert is to die for. Pho Pho gives you a taste of Vietnamese culture in a very authentic way. It’s comfort food from a different culture. My favorite is the Beef Pho.

What things are important to you when choosing your local hangout? Staff that makes you feel welcome? Seating that is plus-size friendly?

A welcoming environment is what makes me feel good. I love to smell great aromas and have a friendly wait staff with comfortable seating for all to relax and enjoy.

Did you use specific resources while making your decision?

No specific resources were used. I’m a foodie, so I just go for it.

Have you found any salons (hair/nail/tanning/waxing) that accommodate and/or make plus-size women feel welcome?

I am actually a professional makeup artist and I am very accommodating to my clientele of all shapes and sizes. Beauty is in everyone and everyone deserves to feel beautiful. I have always encountered a non-biased environment in the salons I have received services in. We don’t experience size bias as much as we do racial bias in the South.

What is it about the salon(s) that give you that feeling?

As previously stated all of the salons I have experienced personally didn’t distinguish between sizes. They have all been very accommodating to everyone and made me feel like I mattered.

Yes, my gynecologist is wonderful. I’ve been seeing her since I was 16. She always ask about me getting exercise as everyone should, but is never overbearing when it comes to weight.

Can you recommend a local gym/yoga studio in your area? What is it about this particular place that keeps you coming back?

Planet Fitness is definitely a no judgement zone and they are everywhere. I also likeLifetime Fitness. Now, they are pricey, but they offer so many amenities such as Saunas, Steam rooms, Yoga, Pilates, Zumba, Kick-boxing, Barre, Spin classes, Weight Lifting, Swimming, and regular gym workouts. You can even play basketball and volleyball there.

Entertainment

Are there any particular music or sporting venues that you avoid because the seating is not comfortable?

I’m sure there have been one or two in the past, but honestly, I can’t even remember those places because I’ve never been back. Most of the venues here have pretty comfortable seating.

Do you have any tips for other plus-size locals when they are looking for a great venue?

I would just say go in with an open mind. Always expect the best. Don’t allow your size to dictate where you go. When you demand respect by the confidence exuded by your presence, you receive it. People will find a way to accommodate you.

Are there any great parks/hiking trails near you that you would recommend to others? What makes this recreational area stand out from others in the area?

Definitely! Railroad Park is one of my favorites. They often have events that are family friendly. They also have a great walking/running track. The scenery is beautiful and in the winter you can go ice skating. One of my favorite hiking trails is Ruffner Mountain. They had a wine and cheese hike that I went on once that was simply amazing.

Tell us about your local stores that fit your style and carry a variety of sizes for the plus-size community.

Ishi Curvy is modern chick, Betsy Moore Boutique is Vintage and Vintage Glam, and Glam Lyfe is more going out to a nice event and party attire.

Do you typically find full outfits or random pieces that you can incorporate into your wardrobe in order to express your personal style?

I find both at these three boutiques there are a few others here that I have yet to visit, but that is just because I am more of an online shopper.

How does the quality compare to the price?

Quality of the clothing is usually worth the price. There have been a few pieces that have been a little on the more expensive side that I wouldn’t value at the price being charged, but for the most part everything offered is worth what is being charged for it.

Eat, Drink, and Be Happy!

My favorite local spot is a hole-in-the-wall Korean place appropriately called I Love Korea. My partner and I love this place and it’s a frequent haunt for my friends and I as well.

If so, what makes it comfortable for you?

The owners are absolutely wonderful and make a point of greeting every customer. The food is phenomenal.

What things are important to you when choosing your local hangout? Staff that makes you feel welcome? Seating that is plus-size friendly?

Being Southern, hospitality is very important to me. And as a plus sized woman, being able to eat somewhere without feeling judged or mocked is crucial. For this reason I tend to stay away from large restaurant chains and opt more for places that are locally owned. In our area small business owners are warmer to their customers and less judgmental. These are things that matter to me.

Did you use specific resources while making your decision?

Finding our ideal places to eat and visit with friends has come about largely through trial and error and occasionally by word of mouth. Nothing beats a good recommendation from a source you know you can trust.

Breakfast: I cook breakfast at home most days, but if I have time I like to grab donuts, kolaches, and coffee from K-May Donuts in Athens, AL. Super sweet owners, fresh donuts every morning. Pure joy.

Coffee: For coffee and tea I hang out in a local bookstore and cafe. It's quiet, tidy and who can say no to books?? If I can't get to it before they close at 5pm, I settle in at our local Starbucks, which a friend of mine manages. Even better is the Starbucks inside bookstore, Barnes & Noble located at Bridge Street in Huntsville, AL. Tea and coffee and books. There’s nothing finer.

Lunch: I love grabbing a plate of southern home cooking from a cute restaurant a few blocks from me called Luvici's. They serve a veggie plate that is absolutely delightful. Collard greens, fried green tomatoes, pinto beans, and corn bread. On occasion a few friends and I will grab lunch at a Mexican restaurant called Las Trojas Cantina in Madison, AL. The food is super delicious and they have a decent variety of vegetarian options, which makes my heart happy.

Dinner: We adore the occasional plate of BBQ from Big Bob Gibson’s BBQ in Decatur, Alabama. This award-winning BBQ is the birthplace of Alabama White Sauce, a vinegar based sauce full of pepper and punch. It's kind of a big deal down here. Their stuffed baked potatoes give me life.

Health and Beauty

Have you found any salons (hair/nail/tanning/waxing) that accommodate and/or make plus-size women feel welcome?

I have found it challenging to find a salon where my size isn't made an issue. It's taken several years for me to figure out which salons are safe places for plus sized women and which aren’t. Thankfully I found a plus sized stylist who owns her own salon. Her salon is a place of instant warmth and security for plus sized men and women in our area. Another salon I feel safe in is called Shaneon’s Downtown Beauty Lounge in Athens, AL. The owner, Shaneon, is an absolute doll and her salon is precious. It's exactly what you picture small town salons would be: chattering, laughing old women, checkerboard floors, vintage light fixtures, and located in a charming downtown area.

What is it about the salon(s) that give you that feeling?

As a plus sized woman I don't ask for much: I just want to be allowed to exist without ridicule or shame. I love my plus sized stylist because she gives her clients a place where we can talk about these issues without being shunned. And I enjoy stopping by Shaneon’s because she is a firm believer in Southern gossip and making sure her clients feel fabulous before and after they walk in, regardless of how they look.

Unfortunately, my current primary care physician and OBGYN are not people whom I trust to give me the best care. A few years ago I had an OBGYN diagnose me with Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome and she was absolutely phenomenal to me. Her name is Dr. Sharon Callison of Tennessee Valley OBGYN in Huntsville, AL. If you're in North Alabama and looking for a compassionate and experienced Gynocologist, I highly recommend her. However, her office is over an hour’s drive away from my home and not realistic for me to visit on a regular basis.

So, as terrible as it is, I've taken to avoiding any doctors at all costs. At a certain point you just get so tired of being told you have a cold because you're fat. I go for my annual pap smear at my OBGYN, sit through them chiding me about my weight, take a pamphlet for their $2,500 weight loss program, then carry on with my life for another year. Unfortunately, this is my reality.

Can you recommend a local gym/yoga studio in your area? What is it about this particular place that keeps you coming back?

I'm sad to say the yoga studios closest to me are not size inclusive. I love yoga, but need a space with instructors who understand fat bodies. I have not found a place like that near me, other than a Curves gym about an hour away from my location.

Entertainment

Are there any particular music or sporting venues that you avoid because the seating is not comfortable?

There is a sports arena near us called the Von Braun Civic Center in Huntsville, AL. It was built in 1975 and there have been updates to it in the 40 years since, but the seats have remained very narrow and shallow. The narrowness of the seats isn't necessarily the worst, but the shallowness is terrible. I feel like I'm barely hanging onto them when I sit. The surprising thing is that my partner, who is not plus sized, also finds the seats to be awkward and smaller. Unless there will be a sporting event or performer there that I really do not want to miss, I just avoid attending events at it.

Do you have any tips for other plus-size locals when they are looking for a great venue?

I wish I had advice for other plus sized locals, but unfortunately the only arena in our area is largely unimpressive. I advise driving an hour south to the much larger city of Birmingham or an hour north to Nashville for events.

Are there any great parks/hiking trails near you that you would recommend to others? What makes this recreational area stand out from others in the area?

I absolutely adore Big Spring Park in Huntsville. This winding walkway takes you through parts of downtown Huntsville, around several duck ponds and water features full of gorgeous koi fish, and it's very charming. Large outdoor events are held at the park during the warmer months, making it even more ideal. There are benches and places to sit and rest everywhere.

A trail I love is in Athens, Alabama called the Swan Creek Trail. It follows a creek for 2.5 miles through the woods. The trees are large and old, but the terrain is largely flat and easy to traverse. Listening to the bubbling creek as you walk or jog is so calming and there are a few places that have been cleared and are ideal for meditation or yoga. Additionally, a Frisbee Golf course has been set up around the trail, and the trail is pet and bicycle friendly.

Local Style

Tell us about your local stores that fit your style and carry a variety of sizes for the plus-size community.

Huntsville has a few plus sized stores, but not many. Given Huntsville’s population and the number of plus sized women in the state of Alabama, this surprises me, but this is the world we live in sometimes.

In Huntsville, AL there is a Lane Bryant, Maurices, and a Dress Barn. As far as higher end brands, the options are non-existent. There is a small Plus section at Belk (a southeastern US department store) in Huntsville, but the offerings are relatively limited. As a plus sized woman in North Alabama I have learned to do most of my shopping online. It's not always ideal, but I make do.

As far as affordability, Ross Dress For Less in Madison, AL has a relatively decent plus size section, but it's hit or miss, given the nature of the store and it's brand.

What is their style aesthetic?

I'm 32 years old, but I don't dress like a conventional southern woman. I wear predominately black, I like younger, flirty clothing, and I want outfits that will hug my curves and rolls, not shroud them in “slimming” patterns and fabric. Unfortunately this leads me back to having to shop online. The plus size clothing carried in most stores in my area are very basic pieces: button-up blouses, khakis, knit sweaters and cardigans, and simple a-line dresses. These are classic outfits for classic southern women, but they're not me. So, I shop online predominately. I order a lot of Torrid or eShakti.

Do you typically find full outfits or random pieces that you can incorporate into your wardrobe in order to express your personal style?

If I find something in a local brick and mortar store, it's usually just one or two pieces I can build upon. Given my particular measurements, it's very rare to find everything I need in one place at one time. When my mother passed away in 2016, I was in a panic trying to find a flattering size 24 dress in black that was appropriate for a funeral. It was summer when she passed so no one had any black funeral dresses in my size immediately available. This was very disappointing and frustrating.

How is the atmosphere/shopping experience?

Shopping at the plus size specific clothing stores is nice enough. The employees are usually also plus sized so there's no fear of judgement or heavy sighs. However, shopping in a plus sized section of a department store is a vastly different experience and the employees are rarely brazenly rude, but frequently cold and distant, even if they'd been noticeably warmer or more helpful with a thin customer. The thing I've noticed most is they don't look you in the eye. Sometimes as a fat woman I just wish these employees looked us in the eye and acknowledged our presense. The best shopping experience I've had at a local brick and mortar store came from Maurices in Madison, AL. Several employees were plus sized so there was an instant feeling of safety and they were super helpful and kind.

How does the quality compare to the price?

Quality plus sized clothing in this area is unpredictable. Lane Bryant isn't a terrible brand and I own several items from them. I have a few items from Maurices as well that I love. Prices at both Lane Bryant and Maurices run up to $100 for blouses, denim, and simple dresses; $100 - $150 for coats or casual evening wear. For the quality, these prices feel appropriate. Some stores, such as Kate Spade NY at Bridge Street in Huntsville, AL, can carry up to a size 18, but these items have to be special ordered by one of the Kate Spade Muses (their helpful in-store staff that aim to provide higher end shopping experiences). Here you’ll find prices run between $300 to $500 for blouses, dresses, and slacks. Given the quality, this is a reasonable cost, if you fall within their sizing limits.

I have a few favorite spots in Alabama one in particular are Cheesecake Factory in Birmingham, Al. The Cheesecake is AMAAAAzing. When it comes to my favorite spots in my local City of Huntsville, Alabama, I would say Bar Louie, Connors, and Bravo. All of those places are great place for a date night, girl’s night out, celebration or a good kick back place after a long day in the office.

If so, what makes it comfortable for you?

I like the environment in all locations the staff makes you feel welcomed. I also love the set up of each location it comes of very classy yet comfortable at the sometime. I would say the most important is all of these locations have very roomy and comfy seating.

What things are important to you when choosing your local hangout?

When choosing a local hangout customer service is key, a clean environment, safe location, great attractions, hours of operations and the overall ambience. These things are important because I love to snap a good photo.

That makes you feel welcome?

Nice conversation making it a little personal or building rapport.

Seating that is plus-size friendly?

Of course I love a location with comfortable sitting for all shapes and sizes. You shouldn’t have to feel insecure about going out and enjoying yourself regardless of what size you are.

Did you use specific resources while making your decision?

I like to research different places when choosing a place for entertainment purposes. I am big on reading reviews or ratings.

Entertainment

Are there any particular music or sporting venues that you avoid because the seating is not comfortable?

No I actually don’t have that problem, I think more venues are developing seating that is comfortable for all shapes and sizes.

Do you have any tips for other plus-size locals when they are looking for a great venue?

I just say don’t be afraid to go out to venues and try it. Remember confidence is key. If I don’t feel comfortable I will just request to move to something more comfortable.

Are there any great parks/hiking trails near you that you would recommend to others? What makes this recreational area stand out from others in the area?

Big Spring Park is located in Huntsville,Alabama. I love it you can go out for dates, exercise, and even entertainment they people out breaking dancing, a man out making balloons, bike rental, movies in park, and once a year they have a huge art festival(Panoply). I think what makes it stand out is all of the different events available for free for the public.

Local Style

Tell us about your local stores that fit your style and carry a variety of sizes for the plus-size community.

Do you typically find full outfits or random pieces that you can incorporate into your wardrobe in order to express your personal style?

I can find a little bit of both. Sometimes I can find a full outfit and other times I find a few pieces from each store. I actually prefer to pick up from different places; I actually like to add my own spin on my style. So pairing different pieces together is an always a plus for me.

How is the atmosphere/shopping experience?

The atmosphere is different primarily plus size store is a different from the store that carries all sizes. I think it more personable when I go into store like Ashley Stewart, Lane Bryant, and Torrid. I think because the store a lot smaller and allows you to engage more with customers and I love that.

How does the quality compare to the price?

The quality and price and be a win or lose situation sometimes. I really do believe that a good quality of plus size clothes can be more expensive in comparison to average sizes. But I can say that I don’t mind paying a good amount for quality and fashionable clothing. Now that’s not to say there aren’t store that provide quality and affordable clothing because there are but I just always prepare myself to pay more those special clothing items that I want.

I am pretty comfortable at any locations in Huntsville. Never been to a location here where I didn’t feel welcome.

What things are important to you when choosing your local hangout? Staff that makes you feel welcome? Seating that is plus-size friendly?

I choose a place that is a fun atmosphere where my friends and I can hang out. It really depends on what we are in the mood for, Huntsville has a lot of craft beer offerings so we go to the breweries often.

Did you use specific resources while making your decision?

I have lived in Huntsville my entire life so unless a place is new I have probably been there or one of my friends have so I will ask them for recommendations.

Health and Beauty

Have you found any salons (hair/nail/tanning/waxing) that accommodate and/or make plus-size women feel welcome?

I go to Uptown Salon and love it there, I went to high school with my stylist, Chelsea. She and everyone at Uptown are welcoming to everyone. We always have a blast when I am in there, laughing and talking the whole time.

Terreme is a wonderful local spa and they are very accommodating, they offer robes in all sizes so that everyone feels comfortable and they can relax.

What is it about the salon(s) that give you that feeling?

There are women and men of all shapes and sizes in my salon, everyone is treated with kindness and respect.

My doctors have never treated me negatively and if they did I would no longer see that physician. If you have a doctor that treats you negatively get up and leave! You are paying this person for their service! There is NO reason to tolerate mistreatment from a physician, they have no authority over you. Please do not let someone make you uncomfortable or upset, there are PLENTY of great doctors out there, try a few till you find one you like and treats you with the respect you deserve. I have PCOS and my doctors are so kind and helpful in finding the right treatments to help me live the healthiest life I can with my condition.

Can you recommend a local gym/yoga studio in your area? What is it about this particular place that keeps you coming back?

24e is great! The staff and members are super friendly, I take classes and everyone is always so encouraging to one and another and welcoming to new people.

Entertainment

Are there any particular music or sporting venues that you avoid because the seating is not comfortable?

We don’t have a lot of sporting options in Huntsville but the VBC is very accommodating and comfortable for attending events

Do you have any tips for other plus-size locals when they are looking for a great venue?

My advice would be don’t live your life focused on the fact that you are plus size. I am plus size but it doesn’t change the way I live my life. If there is somewhere you want to go or something you want to do then I do it! Plus size or not just live your life to the fullest! Being plus size doesn’t define you and it is just part of what makes you, you! Go out and have fun with your badass self!

Are there any great parks/hiking trails near you that you would recommend to others? What makes this recreational area stand out from others in the area?

I lived on Monte Sano for 4 years and the mountain trails are beautiful! My roommate and I used to hike them for hours! It is soooo pretty and there are a ton of different trails so you get to see new stuff every time!

Local Style

Tell us about your local stores that fit your style and carry a variety of sizes for the plus-size community.

This is one area where Huntsville is really lacking! The plus size store options are few and far between, I do most of my shopping online or take the 3 hour trip to Atlanta. I am in the process of opening a boutique that will be size inclusive in the Huntsville area!

What is your style aesthetic?

My style is all over the place, depending on my mood, I can be in chucks and jeans one day and a full tulle skirt the next. Street style to super feminine in the same week is the usual for me.

Do you typically find full outfits or random pieces that you can incorporate into your wardrobe in order to express your personal style?

To my bank accounts dismay, I am always adding to my wardrobe. Also, I am beyond blessed to receive a lot of items from brands for me to try and review, so that helps me build my wardrobe as well. Plus I am always able to pass stuff on to friends or donate items I don’t need or can’t wear.

How is the atmosphere/shopping experience?

The stores that do offer plus size here, like Lane Bryant, are great! The managers and staff there are super friendly and helpful any time I go in.

How does the quality compare to the price?

There aren’t many to compare since there isn’t many plus size offerings in stores in Huntsville.

Health and Beauty

Have you found any salons (hair/nail/tanning/waxing) that accommodate and/or make plus-size women feel welcome?

Yes! I have been going to my hair Salon for years, I go to Chic Hair Bar by Marnesha Gilchrist, my favorite nail salon is Nail World 2 and best wax is at LA Wax. Everyone is so kind and helpful. It took a while for me to get comfortable with the waxing, but I’ve finally reached that point.

What is it about the salon(s) that give you that feeling?

No one makes me feel uncomfortable or brings up my weight. There are no snide remarks made about my body and the staff are all inclusive (size, race, age, sexuality). That’s important to me.

Yes! Doctor Cary Phillips Crowe is amazing! She never ever brings up my weight unless I do or unless there has been a drastic change, including weight loss, despite me being overweight. She shows concerns for my health when there are actual problems, not because I’m overweight.

Can you recommend a local gym/yoga studio in your area? What is it about this particular place that keeps you coming back?

Fat Girl Yoga at Abundance Yoga Studio is amazing! And I have been going to YMCA to work out for years. I haven’t faced any type of discrimination while working out or taking classes.

Entertainment

Are there any particular music or sporting venues that you avoid because the seating is not comfortable?

Nope. I haven’t had any experience with too small of a seating around here, but if I go to a new theater I always call and ask if I will be comfortable in their seating. Or if they have any seats that are larger than others.

Do you have any tips for other plus-size locals when they are looking for a great venue?

Check it out and see if you are comfortable, read any reviews you can find, check their social media and see what you can tell from there, or call ahead to make sure you might be comfortable.

Are there any great parks/hiking trails near you that you would recommend to others? What makes this recreational area stand out from others in the area?

Local Style

Tell us about your local stores that fit your style and carry a variety of sizes for the plus-size community.

What is their style aesthetic?

Welll that’s we get into a hard category. Other than mainstream public shopping like Lane Bryant, Loft, Anthropologie and we don’t have any specialty plus-size shops.

Do you typically find full outfits or random pieces that you can incorporate into your wardrobe in order to express your personal style?

I always find pieces, never full outfits.

How is the atmosphere/shopping experience?

It’s the typical shopping environment. Sometimes I’ve had a few negative experiences shopping in boutiques who have said things like we don’t have your size or just didn’t help me.

How does the quality compare to the price?

When I do find plus size pieces in boutiques I don’t love the quality for the price and that’s hard to reconcile with.

There you have it! ALABAMA straight from those women living in it. We would LOVE to hear your comments and recommendations of other plus size bloggers there, and places that you recommend in the comments below. Thanks you so much!!!